Bulldogs Perform at World Championships

Matthew O'Donoghue '14 (Photo courtesy of US Rowing)

Jul 29, 2013

DERBY, Conn. - The U23 World Championships culminated Sunday, as some of the world's finest young talent contested the event's grand finals on the regatta's final day. Held on the Linz-Ottensheim race course in Linz, Austria, the competition featured two Yale lightweights, rising seniors Joseph Hanlon and Matthew O'Donoghue.

Both oarsmen competed in the men's lightweight four (4-). After a difficult heat, the crew advanced to Sunday's grand final, becoming only the fifth US crew ever to do so. In the final, the US faced five strong crews. In a tight field, the US finished sixth in a time of 6:05.95, barely behind the Germans, who crossed the line in 6:05.58. Italy won the race in 5:58.53.

O'Donoghue, recently elected captain of the Y150, took many positives from the team's performance.

"While our goal from the beginning was to come home with a medal, I am happy with the way we raced at this regatta," O'Donoghue said. "There was a lot of mutual respect between all of the boats."

O'Donoghue also spoke of his anticipation for the upcoming season, as he looks to bring his experience back to the team.

"I am really grateful to have had this opportunity... [and] I am excited to get back and get ready for the fall season," he continued.

The focus for the Yale lightweights now turns directly to preparations for the upcoming season. The Bulldogs return to action at home on October 12, in the 19th Head of the Housatonic regatta.